What to do if you can't download or save files

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This article describes steps to take if you are unable to download or save files using Firefox.

Note:The Refresh Firefox feature can fix many issues by restoring Firefox to its factory default state while saving your essential information. Consider using it before going through a lengthy troubleshooting process.

Reset the download folder

The about:config "This might void your warranty!" warning page may appear. Click I'll be careful, I promise!I accept the risk! to continue to the about:config page.

In the Search field, enter browser.download.

If any of the following settings have a status of user setmodified, reset their values. To reset a value, right-clickhold down the Ctrl key while you click the setting and select Reset from the context menu:

browser.download.dir

browser.download.downloadDir

browser.download.folderList

browser.download.lastDir

browser.download.useDownloadDir

If desired, you can revert back to your preferred download folder settings by changing your Firefox settings.

Choose a valid download folder in Safari Preferences

If you receive the error <filename> could not be saved, because an unknown error occurred. , your problem might be caused by an interaction with the Safari browser and your operating system.

To fix the problem, open Safari's Preferences and change the Save downloaded files to: setting to a valid folder (such as your Desktop). Then restart Firefox.

Delete corrupt plist file

If you receive the error <filename> could not be saved, because you cannot change the contents of that folder. Change the folder properties and try again, or try saving in a different location., your problem might be caused by corrupt plist files.

To fix this problem, go to your home directory and delete this preference file:

On Windows, third-party download manager plugins can interfere with Firefox downloads. Download Manager plugin files that get added to the Firefox plugins folder include the following, listed by the download manager program and the associated plugin filename:

Configure Internet security software

Internet security software, including firewalls, antivirus programs, anti-spyware programs, and others can block certain file downloads. Check the settings in your security software to see if there is an setting that may be blocking downloads.

To diagnose whether Internet security software is causing problems, you can try temporarily disabling it, seeing if downloads work, and then re-enabling the software.

Enable downloads blocked by Security Zone Policy

Downloading an executable file (e.g., an .exe or .msi file) may fail, with the Downloads window showing Canceled under the file name.

This happens because Firefox honors your Windows security settings for downloading applications and other potentially unsafe files from the Internet. To resolve this problem, use the solution given below.